If you’re looking for an exciting adventure, then a road trip through Texas is an excellent option. The Lone Star State is known for its vast highways, diverse landscapes, and unique attractions.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or with family and friends, Texas has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best road trips to take in Texas:
1. The Big Bend Loop
Located in West Texas, Big Bend National Park is one of the state’s most iconic destinations.
It’s known for its stunning desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and clear night skies. The Big Bend Loop is a 250-mile loop that takes you through some of the best parts of the park and surrounding areas.
Highlights:
- Hiking trails through Santa Elena Canyon
- The Chisos Mountains
- The Rio Grande River
- Marfa – a small town known for its art installations and mysterious lights
2. Hill Country Loop
The Hill Country Loop is a picturesque drive that winds through the scenic Texas Hill Country region. This road trip takes you through charming small towns, rolling hills, and beautiful waterways.
Highlights:
- Fredricksburg – a German-inspired town known for its wineries and breweries
- Gruene – a historic district with live music venues and delicious food options
- The Guadalupe River – perfect for tubing or kayaking in the summer months
- LBJ Ranch – home of President Lyndon B Johnson and now a national park
3. Gulf Coast Road Trip
If you’re a beach lover, then the Gulf Coast Road Trip is for you. This route takes you through some of the state’s best coastal towns, beaches, and seafood restaurants.
Highlights:
- Galveston Island – a historic beach town with an amusement park and great seafood
- Rockport – a small town known for its fishing and bird-watching opportunities
- Padre Island National Seashore – a 70-mile stretch of undeveloped beach perfect for camping and wildlife viewing
- Corpus Christi – a bustling city with great museums, restaurants, and beaches
4. The Panhandle Plains
The Panhandle Plains region of Texas is known for its wide-open spaces, big skies, and western culture. This road trip takes you through some of the most iconic western towns in Texas.
Highlights:
- Amarillo – home of the famous Cadillac Ranch art installation and delicious steak restaurants
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park – the second-largest canyon in the United States
- Lubbock – birthplace of Buddy Holly and home to great museums and wineries
- The historic Route 66 – drive on part of this iconic highway that runs through Texas
No matter which road trip you choose to take in Texas, make sure to pack plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and water. With so much to see and do in the Lone Star State, you won’t regret hitting the open road.